Exploring and investigating corruption in the UPND government in Lusaka district.
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Date
2024
Authors
Locha, Prudence
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
The University of Zambia
Abstract
This study aimed to exploring corruption in the UPND New Dawn Government in Lusaka District, Zambia. The study used a sample of 100 respondents who were selected using purposive sampling technique. The research design combined both qualitative and quantitative methods,
involving content analysis for qualitative data and simple statistical quantification to present quantitative data. Nevertheless, the bulk part of this research method was anchored on qualitative methods. Quantitative technique was used to justify the extent of UPND’S corruption since other
methods have proven inconsistent towards fighting political corruption. The study's findings uncovered an increase in the presence of corruption by the UPND New Dawn Government, despite being a government that had promised to fight corruption in a transparency and accountable manner. This study explored, investigated and identified various factors that facilitate corruption such as: political patronage, poverty, inequality, weak institutions,
ineffective anti-corruption measures, and a culture of impunity among public officials. Key informants also emphasized the lack of transparency and weak oversight institutions as factors contributing to corruption. These findings resonated with Treisman's (2000) research, which identified the role of social and economic heterogeneity, specifically ethnic fractionalization, facilitating the increase in corruption. The study highlighted the complex dynamics at play in the context of political patronage, poverty, and the ineffectiveness of anti-corruption measures. While public perception indicated a significant level of corruption in the UPND government, key informants suggested that stringent anti-corruption measures had resulted in lower levels of corruption. These measures included a clear legal framework to combat corruption, whistleblower protection, enhanced oversight, and independent anti-corruption agencies. Challenges in the fight against corruption included a lack of funding and resources, political interference, whistleblower vulnerability, and limited education and awareness. These challenges were in line with the findings of Maiga (2023), highlighting the negative impact of corruption on human capital development. The socio-economic and cultural effects of corruption were also examined. Economic drain, poverty, income inequality, and inefficient resource allocation were identified as socio-economic consequences. Culturally, corruption led to the normalization of unethical behavior, erosion of trust, and an impact on social cohesion. These findings underline the far-reaching effects of corruption on society and underscore the importance of addressing this issue comprehensively. Macre’s Game theory was applied for determining different strategies in perpetuating corruption by the UPND government in Lusaka. It was used for offering valuable tools for solving strategy problem of how corruption can be reduced. The game theory was used to determine the level of accomplices for corruption crime, were there is not enough evidence for a felony conviction. The argument was that perpetrators of political corruption take the actions simply as a game and not a felony, hence its increase by the actors in the UPND government. Methodologically, the study used a mixed research technique, even though the larger part of it
was explorative approach thus involving interviews, focused group discussions, storytelling and observations. In conclusion, the study revealed that while there are measures in place to combat corruption in the UPND New Dawn Government, challenges persist. Addressing these challenges and
promoting a culture of transparency and accountability is essential. Corruption not only undermines economic development but also erodes cultural values and social cohesion. It is recommended that efforts to combat corruption include strengthening oversight institutions, promoting ethical leadership, and simplifying legal processes. Public awareness campaigns and measures to reduce poverty and inequality should be prioritized.
Description
Thesis of Masters degree in Social Work and Community Development.